BUYING A USED CAR

Buying a Second-hand Car?

What to do

Don't pay more than the advertised price
Take someone with you when you go to view, preferably someone who knows about cars
Use the checklist attached to this leaflet
Clocked cars

Clocking cars is a way of reducing miles shown on the car's odometer. In some cases, it is difficult to tell whether the indicated mileage is true or false.

Look out for:

Excessive wear on the pedal rubbers, gear shift and steering wheel
A sagging seat or worn driver's seat cover and worn carpets on the driver's side
Excessive damage from stone chippings
Are the numbers on the odometer lining up?
Check the mileage on the car against the Service records
What to check before you buy

Check that the person selling the car really owns it. Ask to see the vehicle registration document and if it is a private sale, make sure the seller's name and address appears on it. Ask the seller for proof of identity
If it is a trade seller, check with the previous owner whether the vehicle has been involved in an accident. Check faults that it may have had prior to sale
Check the warranty offered for the car. What does it cover?
Check for signs of a respray, touch-up, rust or other damage
Check the price of the car (You may find it helpful to buy a used-car price guide; available from most newsagents)
Handy hints

It is best to buy from a reputable trader with the backing of a trade association
If you buy privately, you need to be extra careful and remember you have fewer legal rights. Keep a copy of the advertisement and any correspondence between you and the seller
Have the car checked by an independent motor mechanic
Go for a test drive
Make sure you can afford the asking price
Don't forget the running costs - how much does it cost to insure and think about the servicing, road tax and petrol
If you buy, make sure you obtain a receipt
A buyer's checklist

Make:

Model:

Registration No:

Mileage Recorded:

Asking Price:

Name of Seller:

Address:

Identity checked:

Ask

Are you the owner of the car?
May I see the log book? (check that the name matches that of the seller)
If older than 3 years, is there a current test certificate (check expiry date)
Why are you selling?
Have you had the car regularly serviced?
May I see the records?
Is there a warranty/guarantee?
Check

There really is no alternative to getting an expert to check the car; it may save you money in the long run. If you are unable to, then you can check:

The Bodywork
Do all the panels line up? Use a magnet to detect any filler which may be hiding damaged bodywork or rust.

The Tyres
Is there uneven wear or damage to the rim?

The Engine Number
Is it the same as that on the registration document?

The Shock Absorbers
Press down on each corner. It should bounce once, then hold still

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